Iowa HHS News

Iowa Safe Haven Law - 80 Infants Total

The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services announced that a baby girl was declared a safe haven in March, bringing the total to 80 infants since the law's inception. The notice reiterates the provisions of the Safe Haven Law and provides resources for prospective foster and adoptive parents.

Iowa Medicaid Director Elected NAMD President Elect

Iowa Medicaid Director Lee Grossman has been elected President Elect of the National Association of Medicaid Directors (NAMD), effective April 1, 2026. This appointment highlights Iowa's role in national Medicaid policy discussions and the sharing of best practices among states.

Iowa Measles Exposure Locations Released

Iowa health officials have released locations in eastern Iowa where individuals may have been exposed to measles. The notice follows a report of an Illinois resident with confirmed measles traveling through Iowa while infectious. The state is advising unvaccinated individuals born after 1957 who visited the identified location to monitor for symptoms.

Iowa Safe Haven Law - Baby Boy Placed with Foster Family

The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services announced that a baby boy, born in October, has been placed with a foster family under the state's Safe Haven Law. This marks the 79th infant placed since the law's inception over two decades ago.

Iowa HHS Reports First Flu Death of Season

The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has reported the first influenza-related death of the 2025-26 respiratory virus season. The deceased was an older adult from southwest Iowa. HHS encourages preventative measures and vaccination.

Iowa SNAP Benefits Resume After Federal Shutdown

The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services announced that SNAP benefits for November are being issued following the resolution of a federal government shutdown. Over 130,000 Iowa households rely on these benefits. Additionally, Iowa's food banks successfully met a $1 million donation match challenge.